I had to shut off my main water valve this past week to install a kitchen fixture and when I went back down to turn it on, I discovered that it was leaking around the packing nut. I put a wrench on the packing nut but it didn't seem like it was really tightening so I let it go. I went back down with more light and discovered the following. It looks like it has been this way for a long time.

It hadn't been leaking until I "disturbed" it but now it has a slow leak and that broken nut really worries me so I need to fix it. What would you guys suggest? Replacing the entire valve would be a huge PITA. This is all really old stuff and I'm afraid things will break or strip. And that's ignoring any difficulty with getting water shutoff and turned back on. So...

Can anyone identify the valve? If so, couldn't I just find another one, screw out the innards of the old one and screw the new stuff in? Does that work? Do these valves have any kind of standardized threading? Any suggestions?

ddawg16

09-22-2011 12:17 AM

I would replace it with a brass body ball valve.....I hate gate valves.....they never do fully close.....

Besides....that beast is old.....not worth the effort to fix it...

Just Bill

09-22-2011 07:55 AM

I would agree with what he said, but looking at the plumbing the valve is connected to, I would not attempt to remove it unless I had a back up plan. Those old pipes will likely not survive being disassembled.

If you can get the handle off(rust/corrosion/time against you), you can remove the broken packing nut. BUT, finding a new one will probably be impossible........so back to plan A.

COLDIRON

09-22-2011 08:04 AM

Replace the valve and piping back to where it's not deteriorated, I know that's not what you asked but it's going to let loose on you at a time when least expected either diy or pro get the pipe and the valve replaced.

Minjin

09-22-2011 08:09 AM

Replacing the valve is absolute last resort. I'll remove the packing nut and machine a new one if I have to before it gets to that. I'm not messing with that pipe.

Good luck it's your pipe do what you think is right not here to second guess you. Please reply back after the repair I would like to see the final outcome.

michaelcherr

09-22-2011 09:05 AM

Doesn't help you now, but for the future: I manage rental properties. After I turn off the main for the first time (or more likely before I turn it on for the first time), I go downstream a bit, but still before the first fixture and install a 1/4 turn ball valve. I then use the new valve as my main shutoff. That way I don't have to mess with the shutoff at the street and I don't have to worry about this issue.